DILI, 10 may 2023 (TATOLI)- Timor-Leste expresses its commitment to fulfilling all its obligations to become a full member of ASEAN.
The commitment was addressed by the Timor-Leste Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak at the great ASEAN Leader’s Summit, take place in Labuan Bajo.
“I can stand here as Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and affirm: Timor-Leste will fulfill all its obligations to become a full member of ASEAN. We are making the leap to do our part by focusing on the essential infrastructure, connectivity, and reception conditions required by the Roadmap.”
To ensure Timor-Leste’s commitment, Taur Matan Ruak demonstrated the examples of the recent investment made by the country, including investments allocated for the expansion and modernization of the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili, to ensure fast and secure communications through the submarine fiber optic cable, as well as to improve the conditions of service to high dignitaries, tourists and investors through the launch of new and modern catering infrastructures, conferences, accommodation and hospitality.
Taur also thanked all the ASEAN leaders, for their unwavering support to Timor-Leste to become a member of ASEAN and join the GREAT Family of the ASEAN Community.
“I would also like to thank all ASEAN leaders for their unwavering support and commitment over the years to achieve one of our key foreign policy goals, which is to become a member of ASEAN and join the GREAT Family of the ASEAN Community.”
In his statement, taur also thanked Cambodia’s active chairmanship of the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits, which was absolutely crucial for Timor-Leste’s admission in principle as the 11th member of ASEAN and its observer status, saying:” ASEAN’s commitment means our mutual recognition of a strong sense of unity in building the ASEAN Community,”
Meanwhile, the 42nd ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings take place in Labuan Bajo on 9-11 May.
The event is hosted by Indonesia as the 2023 ASEAN Chair.
Journalist: Camilo de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B.
